Is the Grand Canyon Railway Still Operating? Current Status

Yes, the Grand Canyon Railway is still operating. It has provided continuous passenger service (with brief interruptions) since its 1901 opening and remains a popular way to reach Grand Canyon National Park.

Current Operations

• Route: Williams, AZ → Grand Canyon Village (South Rim) — 65 miles (105 km)
• Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes each way
• Schedule: Daily (most of year); 1-2 round trips/day (seasonal)
• Classes: Pullman (basic), Coach, First Class, Luxury Dome, Luxury Parlor, Observation Dome
• Fare (2024): $70-$250+ pp round trip (varies by class, season)
• Steam Locomotive: Runs select weekends (Memorial Day-Labor Day) — former Santa Fe 4960
• Entertainment: Musicians, cowboy characters, mock train robbery

History & Ownership

• 1901: Santa Fe Railway completes line; opens Grand Canyon tourism
• 1968: Passenger service ends (auto competition)
• 1989: Reopened by private investors (Max & Thelma Biegert)
• 2006: Sold to Xanterra Parks & Resorts (current operator)
• 2019: 100th anniversary of Grand Canyon National Park

Package Options

• Rail + Hotel: Overnight at Grand Canyon Railway Hotel (Williams) or Maswik/Yavapai Lodges (Grand Canyon)
• Rail + Tour: Bus tours along Rim, IMAX, helicopter add-ons
• Special Events: Polar Express (Nov-Dec), Steam Saturdays, Wine & Dine, Photography

Why Take the Train?

• No driving/parking stress at Grand Canyon (severe congestion)
• Historic experience (restored 1920s-50s cars)
• Wildlife viewing (elk, pronghorn, condors, prairie dogs)
• Eco-friendly (reduces park traffic)
• Williams, AZ is charming Route 66 town worth visiting

Booking

Reservations strongly recommended: thetrain.com or 1-800-843-8724. Book months ahead for steam runs, holidays, summer weekends.